Opinion - If the All Blacks were expecting une pure formalité for their arrival ceremony in Lyon, they got it.
In front of a very polite crowd enclosed in the walls of the stately Hôtel de Ville courtyard, the side was presented with their World Cup caps by World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont, regaled with a speech from the mayor, before facing a typically chaotic French media session.
But even though the crushing 35-7 loss to the Springboks last weekend was mentioned a few times, coach Ian Foster was all smiles as he knew how important it was to get the citizens of Lyon on the All Blacks' side. Tall order considering that they are playing France in their first match next Friday.
But it is worth remembering that the last time they played a test match against France in Lyon, the All Blacks were given a standing ovation while the French side was booed off the park.
The All Blacks pose for a group photo during a welcoming ceremony at the town hall with mayor Gregory Doucet in Lyon on 1 September. Photo: AFP / Olivier Chassignole
That match, one of the most impressive All Black wins ever, ended 47-3 back in 2006.
It is certainly a while ago, that is for sure. It was one of four comfortable wins in a row leading into the sides meeting at the following year's World Cup ... and we all know what happened there.
"For us this is about building our team not just for next week but for the whole tournament," Foster said when asked about the stay in Lyon.
"We're excited to be here today ... we can't wait to start but this tournament is going to start with a very special game next Friday."
All Blacks coach Ian Foster Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
Foster also went on to win a few French hearts by declaring Stade de France as his second favourite venue (after Eden Park), commenting on the incredible atmosphere that greeted the All Blacks when they last played there in 2021.
Meanwhile, Dalton Papalii was amped like a kid on Christmas Eve about how he was feeling with the tournament about to get underway.
"Can't beat it ... first World Cup and we couldn't put it into words," the 25-year-old flanker said.
"As a kid this is what you dream for ... I can't wait."
All Blacks flanker Dalton Papalii. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The All Blacks trooped out of the courtyard to be greeted by fans who had lined up to greet them, hunting autographs and photos. As well, a heavy security presence was around the side with numerous well-armed local police in attendance.
Lyon is where the All Blacks will base themselves for the tournament, training at the old Stade de Gerland where they pummelled France 17 years ago.
They move up to Paris next week for the most anticipated Rugby World Cup opener ever, in a tournament that World Rugby accidentally made the most intriguing of all time.
But if the All Blacks cannot improve on their lacklustre showing against the Springboks last weekend, then it is highly doubtful Foster and his players' smiles will remain that way for very long.
